The trial of Tehran's mayor on corruption charges got off to a controversial start yesterday in a courtroom drama which political analysts believe reflects a far-reaching power struggle simmering within Iran's government.
Mr Gholamhossein Karbaschi (45), who has run the Iranian capital for the past nine years, immediately went on the offensive, denouncing the accusations as fabrications and challenging the court's jurisdiction.
The judge, wearing the white turban and brown robe of a Shia cleric, said he regretted having to try a senior manager but warned: "Nobody is above the law." The trial was later adjourned until Thursday.
Mr Karbaschi is accused of embezzling over £3 million sterling, receiving bribes and mismanagement of public property. His supporters claim that Islamic ultraconservatives within the government and the judiciary are victimising the mayor because he supports reforms championed by President Mohammed Khatami.
The mayor's arrest on April 4th triggered demonstrations, which threatened to transform the rivalry within Iran's ruling circles into street battles pitting pro-reform students against Revolutionary Guards. The crisis was defused by his release on April 15th.
Mr Karbaschi has been a hate-figure among Islamic hardliners since he backed Mr Khatami against a conservative opponent in last May's elections.